This Spicy Black Bean and Beef Chili is a flavorful and satisfying meal that perfectly fits into your collection of Healthy Beef Recipes. You will love making this hearty dish, packed with protein and vegetables, for a delicious weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering. It’s a simple, comforting meal you can feel good about.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Lean Ground Beef: You can use ground turkey or a plant-based ground substitute for a different twist.
- Black Beans: Feel free to swap with kidney beans or pinto beans.
- Diced Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes work well too.
- Chili Powder: Adjust the amount to your preferred spice level.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15 ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup beef broth
Spices:
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Shredded cheddar cheese
- A dollop of plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving (approximate): 350-400
- Tools Needed: Large pot or Dutch oven, cutting board, knife.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Brown Your Beef and Sauté Aromatics
Heat olive oil in your pot over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned. Drain any excess fat. Next, add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the pot and cook until they soften, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add Tomatoes, Beans, and Broth
Pour in the undrained diced tomatoes, rinsed black beans, and beef broth. Stir everything together gently. This forms the delicious liquid base for your chili.
3. Season Your Chili to Perfection
Add the chili powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir well to combine all the spices evenly throughout the chili.
4. Simmer and Develop Flavors
Bring the chili to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for at least 20 minutes. Stir occasionally. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld and deepen beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying Healthy Beef Recipes dish.
5. Serve Hot and Garnish
Once the chili is ready, ladle it into bowls. Top with your favorite garnishes like fresh cilantro, shredded cheddar cheese, or a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy finish. Enjoy your homemade Spicy Black Bean and Beef Chili!
Variation Ideas
- Add a can of corn for extra sweetness and texture.
- Include diced carrots or celery when sautéing the aromatics for more vegetables.
- Increase the amount of cayenne pepper for a spicier kick.
- Serve over brown rice or quinoa for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover Spicy Black Bean and Beef Chili in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in individual portions. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I make this chili in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables as instructed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Is this chili gluten-free?
As written, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Always check the labels on your broth and spices to ensure they are certified gluten-free if you have a strict dietary need.
- How can I make this chili thicker?
If you prefer a thicker chili, you can simmer it uncovered for a longer period at the end to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
- Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add diced zucchini, bell peppers of other colors, or even mushrooms for added nutrients and flavor.
- What can I serve with this chili?
This chili is delicious on its own, but you can serve it with cornbread, a side salad, or over baked potatoes.
- Can I use canned pre-seasoned black beans?
You can, but be mindful of the added sodium and spices. Rinse them thoroughly before adding to control the flavor profile.
